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Sunday, July 20, 2008

Writing Lessons: Hero and Heroine Archetypes

What is an archetype:

n.1. An original model or type after which other similar things are patterned; a prototype: “‘Frankenstein’ . . . ‘Dracula’ . . . ‘Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ . . . the archetypes that have influenced all subsequent horror stories” (New York Times).2. An ideal example of a type; quintessence: an archetype of the successful entrepreneur.3. In Jungian psychology, an inherited pattern of thought or symbolic imagery derived from the past collective experience and present in the individual unconscious.

USAGE NOTE The ch in archetype, and in other English words of Greek origin such as architect and chorus, represents a transliteration of Greek X (chi), and is usually pronounced like (k). In a recent survey, 94 percent of the Usage Panel indicated that they pronounce archetype (är'kĭ-tīp'), with a (k) sound, while 6 percent preferred the pronunciation (är'chĭ-tīp'), with a (ch) sound. Of those who preferred the traditional (k) pronunciation, 10 percent noted that the (ch) pronunciation was also acceptable. Only the traditional pronunciation is widely accepted as standard, however.

Obviously, we use definition #1. Characters often fall into patterns of behavior based on certain archetypes. By consciously choosing an archetype, you can not only create a character that is recognizable to the reader's psyche, you can also choose how his or her conflict epiphany will change them to fit your story.

We'll go into each of these in the coming posts. If you wish to read more about archetypes in writing, I highly suggest going to www.tamicowden.com and purchasing her book, "The Writer's Guide to Sixteen Master Archetypes." Her thorough explanation will give greater depth to all your characters.

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